Bangladesh Eases Visa Process for Pakistanis
Under the new policy, Pakistani heads of missions will no longer need to seek prior clearance from Dhaka when applying for visas.
In a significant move aimed at enhancing economic ties, Bangladesh has simplified its visa process for Pakistani citizens.
The announcement was made by Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Iqbal Hussain Khan, who emphasized that this change will facilitate greater trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
Under the new policy, Pakistani heads of missions will no longer need to seek prior clearance from Dhaka when applying for visas. This adjustment is expected to streamline travel and encourage more business interactions, thereby unlocking the untapped potential in bilateral trade.
High Commissioner Hussain highlighted the importance of prioritizing trade and investment, noting that Bangladesh’s population of around 180 million represents a substantial consumer market for Pakistani goods.
He expressed optimism about increasing the current trade volume, which reached approximately $718 million in the fiscal year 2023-24. This figure includes $661 million in exports from Pakistan and $57 million in imports from Bangladesh. Both countries aim to elevate this trade figure to at least $2 billion in the near future.
Additionally, the High Commissioner called for a revitalization of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), underscoring the need for enhanced regional cooperation to foster economic growth among South Asian nations.
This initiative marks a positive step towards improving diplomatic relations that have faced challenges over the past decade, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering cooperation and mutual economic benefits.
